Craigslist is another good place to find groups of people—check under the “events” or “activities” sections. After moving last year, I found a young women’s advocacy group on Craigslist. That night, I went out to their monthly happy hour.

Get Moving.
Working out at a gym will let you feel confident and give you a chance to meet people. At the gym, you can strike up a conversation with the girl on the next-door elliptical about the evil new Pilates instructor. Organized athletics hold potential, too. My coworker Melonyce joined a women’s running group after she moved to our city. She enjoyed the camaraderie of her fellow runners. Also, kickball and dodgeball aren’t just for sixth-grade gym class anymore. They’re hugely popular with young professionals, and the games are pretty low-pressure. Visit the World Adult Kickball Association at kickball.com to find a team near you.

Join a Book Club.
Whether you like to read Oprah’s latest picks, the newest chick lit novel or classics, book clubs are a great opportunity to keep your brain engaged and meet other smart people. Most libraries and big book stores like Barnes & Noble host lots of book clubs, so you can find the one that’s right for you.

Find Your Local Hangouts.
If a nearby bar or coffee shop is always hopping, try stopping by occasionally. Consider that glass of wine or coffee an investment. When my friend Erica moved to New York City to work in publishing, she started going out on her own. “I look over and smile. If they smile back and look halfway sane, then I’ll say hey,” she says.

Take Your Time.
You won’t make new friends overnight—and that’s OK! Enjoy some alone time, perhaps read a good book or learn about the wonders of Netflix. Stay positive and you’ll have plenty of friends soon enough.